A Texas pastor is facing widespread backlash after making controversial remarks about Tiffany Regan, a woman chosen as the sole finalist for the position of school superintendent in Deer Park, Texas.
Houston-based pastor Doug Harris condemned Regan, calling her “ungodly” and “immoral” due to her personal lifestyle.
His words have sparked outrage both in the local community and online, with many calling for an apology.
Pastor’s Outrageous Sermon Against Regan
During a sermon on March 16, Pastor Doug Harris launched a scathing attack on Regan, who has worked in the Deer Park Independent School District for decades.
Just two days after Regan was announced as the district’s finalist for superintendent, Harris criticized her for what he called her “sexually immoral” lifestyle.
Harris claimed her personal views had “corrupted her worldview” and warned that her appointment could lead the district into a downward spiral, accusing her of pushing “wokeism” and “liberalism.”
While Harris acknowledged Regan’s professional experience, including her role as assistant superintendent, he insisted that her “morality” was the real issue.
He argued that if she did not change her views to align with his interpretation of scripture, she would not be fit to lead the school district.
Harris Defends His Comments, Claims He Wants Regan to Repent
Harris, however, attempted to clarify his intentions by stating that he did not mean to “destroy” Regan, but rather to encourage her to “repent” and change her views on human sexuality.
According to Harris, if Regan embraced a “biblical” perspective on these matters, she could be a “phenomenal” superintendent.
Despite his criticism, the congregation’s reaction to his remarks was muted, with only a few sparse claps.
The backlash has since been significant, with a growing number of community members speaking out against Harris’s personal attack on Regan.
A petition on Change.org, demanding an apology from the pastor, has already gathered over 2,000 signatures.
The petition argues that Harris’s comments are a form of “identity-based discrimination” and that Regan’s qualifications for the role should be judged based on her work, not her personal life.
Support for Regan Grows Amid Controversy
Regan, who has been a Deer Park educator since 1995, is receiving support from many in the community, including Angela Garcia, president of the Pasadena Educators Association.
Garcia, whose children were taught by Regan, expressed her disbelief at how anyone could be so hateful toward someone who has dedicated their life to education and serving the community.
Regan’s candidacy for the superintendent position is also backed by Jason Cable, the president of the Deer Park ISD school board.
Cable emphasized that Regan’s selection was based on her qualifications, leadership experience, and dedication to student success.
He stressed that the district adheres to state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination based on personal characteristics that are unrelated to job performance.
The School District’s Response
In a statement, Cable reaffirmed that the school board’s decision was grounded in Regan’s qualifications and ability to lead.
He stated that the district would continue to prioritize what is best for students and would remain committed to selecting strong leaders who are qualified to guide the district.
The school board is set to finalize Regan’s appointment on April 4, following a 21-day waiting period during which the community can provide additional feedback.
Deer Park ISD has a long tradition of selecting leaders from within the district, with Regan continuing that legacy.
As the district looks ahead to the future, Cable remains confident that Regan is the right person to lead Deer Park into the next phase of education.
The controversy surrounding Harris’s comments continues to stir strong emotions in the community, raising questions about the intersection of personal beliefs and professional qualifications in public service.